Lukman Abdulmalik
Former Kano State Governor, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, has expressed deep gratitude to Almighty Allah as he marked his 70th birthday, describing the milestone as a time for reflection, appreciation, and forgiveness.
Speaking at a thanksgiving event held at his residence in Kano, Shekarau said attaining 70 years is a remarkable blessing, quoting Prophet Muhammad (SAW) that the average lifespan of his followers is between 60 and 70 years.
“When you reach 60, it’s injury time; by 70, it’s extra time, and the referee can blow the whistle at any moment,” he said.
The former governor thanked Allah for guiding him through a lifetime of service as a teacher, administrator, governor, minister, and senator, while acknowledging the moral foundation laid by his late parents.
He also used the occasion to seek forgiveness from those he might have wronged and to forgive everyone who may have offended him.
“Every human being makes mistakes. I ask all those who feel I have offended them to forgive me, and I have forgiven anyone who has offended me,” he said.
Shekarau urged younger Nigerians to live by five principles he described as keys to success: good conduct, hard work, perseverance, patience, and total dependence on God.
“The beauty of life is not in how happy you are, but how happy others are because of you,” he added.
